An incoming commissioner and a new utilities director were introduced formally Monday night to the Wildwood City Commission.
Joe Elliott defeated Commissioner Robby Strickland in the Nov. 8 election and will be sworn in on Jan. 9. Christopher Picardi started as utilities director on Oct. 31.
“There is a time to campaign, a time to vote and a time to roll up our sleeves and go to work,” Elliott said in a short speech to the commission. “Join me in this time to work.”
The incoming commissioner said he was pleased that the local campaign lacked the negative aspects of recent national campaigns.
“I look forward to serving with you and continuing the traditions which have made Wildwood, Florida, great, and in discovering the possibility of a greater tomorrow, he said.
Strickland lost his re-election bid after serving a decade on the commission. Elliott said he ran to provide representation for Villagers who live within Wildwood’s city limits.
Picardi, who came to Wildwood from Pasco County, replaces Dave Watson, who left in May after 18 months on the job.
In other business, commissioners:
• Approved a budget amendment that provides $45,550 to purchase vehicles and equipment for new police officers and provides money for the local historical society and industrial park fund.
• Heard that County Road 462 northbound from County Road 466A is expected to reopen by the end of the month, although the road construction project will not be completed by then.
